In recent weeks, at least six tourists have died in Laos after consuming alcohol laced with methanol, raising international concerns about the safety of alcoholic beverages in the region.

Methanol, a toxic chemical found in products like antifreeze, can accidentally appear in liquor during the distillation process and is sometimes added deliberately to counterfeit alcohol for cost reasons.

When ingested, methanol is metabolized into formic acid, leading to symptoms such as dizziness and nausea, and can result in organ failure or death.

The deaths occurred at Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, a popular stop for backpackers.

After consuming free vodka shots, multiple tourists, including Australian Holly Bowles, British lawyer Simone White, two Danish nationals, and an American tourist, succumbed to methanol poisoning.

Bianca Jones, 19, also died in a Thai hospital.

The Laotian government is investigating the incident, detaining several people linked to the hostel.

To stay safe, travelers are advised by the US Embassy in Laos to purchase alcohol from licensed vendors and to avoid homemade spirits.

Treatment for methanol poisoning includes the antidote fomepizole and hemodialysis.